Expect a little more drama next season — in a statement released to Us Weekly, Lydia McLaughlin revealed she won't be returning to The Real Housewives of Orange County after just one season as a regular.
So, why the sudden exit? According to McLaughlin, there was no major behind-the-scenes drama (like with most events on this show) — she just felt it was time to leave. "I never wanted to make a career out of being a housewife. That's never really been a dream of mine," McLaughlin told the magazine in her statement. "I want to build my brand outside of the Housewives -- I've always been really honest with the producers about that. I knew that while I was filming it that I probably wasn't going to be doing it again."
McLaughlin was generally a pretty calm presence on the show, so it's going to be interesting to see how the dynamics change when she's not around to stifle any drama. It is a little sad — her chillaxed attitude was a nice change from all the drama. We will, however, miss Lydia's dear mother, who endlessly entertained us all with her charisma, her love of weed, and during that brief time when she thought was a tree. And that other time she thought she was a fairy. Just make Lydia's mom a cast member, guys!
Also departing this season are Alexis Bellino and Gretchen Rossi, both of whom were fired for "running their course" on the series.
As for what Lydia is doing next — Lydia commented she would continue to work on her magazine, Beverly Hills Lifestyle , and a jewelry line she's starting. She didn't, however, rule out another reality show, saying, "I definitely have plans to continue to sparkle fairy dust and be a light! I want to develop our own reality show about our magazine and all the glitz and glamour involved with publishing it." Speaking as someone with experience, there isn't really that much glitz and glam in the magazine publishing industry — but OK, sure. Hey, you know what would be a better idea? A REALITY SHOW FOR LYDIA'S MOM.
JUDY APPRECIATION LIFE.
And now, in memorial of Lydia's stint on RHOOC, let's all watch this video from Canadian television of Lydia, aged 5, singing about religion. Why not?
